On Tuesday night, Bally Borough Manager Wendy Mutter announced, at the borough council meeting, that the borough finance committee met concerning the budget.  It is anticipated, because of declining revenue from building permits and rising expenses, it might be necessary for the borough council to raise the real estate tax rate from the current 5 mills to between 5.1 to 5.3 mills.  As yet, no decision has been made on the possible tax increase.

            Mutter explained, "To cover borough costs, the only option is to raise real estate taxes.  The borough has to charge more because it costs the borough more to operate." 

            She noted gas, electric and heat costs have risen for the borough just like the average person's expenses.

            The borough council agreed to advertise its new sewer and water ordinance.  The current rate for Bally sewer and water is $242.26 for the minimum use of 5,000 gallons.  The Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) fee for a sewer connection will be $6,500.  Additionally, the ordinance requires properties located in the borough to be connected to Bally sewer and water.

            A resident of Bally questioned why sewer and water rates have increased. Mutter explained that, several years ago, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) mandated the borough upgrade its sewer system or face significant fines.  The cost to revamp the sewer system was approximately $3.2 million.  Bally had to acquire a 25-year loan to finance the upgrades.  The upgrades to the sewer system resulted in higher fees. 

            Mutter noted Bally has a small customer base for sewer and water.  As a result the cost of sewer and water is spread over a smaller group of ratepayers than in a larger municipality such as Boyertown. 

            She added, "The borough does not charge more than it has to for its services."

            Council President Glenn Mutter informed the borough council there were 20 additional calls on Bally Ambulance Service in September than what is usual.  Mutter explained there was no solution, thus far, for Bally Ambulance covering other ambulance areas.

            Eastern Berks Fire Chief Mike Mutter requested Bally keep the all-volunteer fire company in its 2023 budget. 

            Chief Mutter noted October is Fire Prevention Month.  The fire department will call on local schools and churches over the month to teach fire safety.

            Manager Mutter informed the borough council that Bally's pool was inspected.  Aside from some necessary painting and repairs for a few cracks, the pool was found to be in good shape.

            To celebrate Halloween, there will be a "Trunk or Treat" on Saturday, October 15th, at the borough pool from 6 to 8 p.m. followed by a free movie in the park.  The rain date is scheduled for October 16th. 

           The Lions annual Halloween Parade is a scheduled for Monday, October 24th at 7 p.m.  Registration begins at 6 p.m. at Bally Borough Hall.  The rain date is Thursday, October 27th. 

            There will be a tractor ride sponsored by Just Farms Kids through Bally and part of Washington Township on Saturday, October 29th from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.  The tractor ride will begin at Bally Block in the borough. 

            On November 26th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. a craft show will be held at Bally Mennonite Church on Route 100. For questions concerning the "Trunk or Treat" or the Craft Show call Borough Councilman Josh Sloan at 484-241-5490.